Mount Sembrano
At the helm of Jalajala peninsula, jutting into Laguna Lake like a frigate, is Mt. Sembrano in Pililla, Rizal. Once a haven of NPA insurgents, it is now a popular hiking destination. The trails are challenging for a daytrip, and takes 3-4 hours to climb. First there’ll be a wide rough road which leads to a rocky path. Locals, if you encounter them, would offer to get fresh coconut juice for P10. Characteristic of the earlier portions of the trail are the numerous mango trees; it is like an orchard. If it is mango season, you might just be tempted to pick a fruit or two. Thus the area is called Manggahan – and there is a campsite here, before the trails become moderately steep (~45 degrees).